Nearly two weeks after the eviction notice deadline expired, approximately six people remain in the University Avenue tent encampment in Halifax.

“Some people are still here and we continue to work with the province and service providers to find options,” says Max Chauvin, director of housing and homelessness for the Halifax Regional Municipality.

“We need staff off site for the winter due to snow and ice removal operations. »

Chauvin says there is space at some shelters in the city, but those models don’t necessarily work for everyone.

“The option may not be structured to meet their needs. They may have particular concerns or experiences that are preventing them from going inside,” says Chauvin.

At last count, there were still 150 people outside. It’s a cause for concern for the CEO of the Spring Garden Road Area Business Association.

“During the recent security briefing we had with the city, we learned yesterday that the province has no plans to build a shelter for those with the most acute needs,” said said Sue Uteck.

“When we look at University Avenue, we’re down to about five or six people. There is nowhere to go for the winter and technically, in reality, that means that the most vulnerable sector of the homeless population will be left to their own devices during the winter.

“There can be a variety of reasons why someone chooses not to move indoors. Maybe the supports don’t suit them, maybe they have other concerns that we haven’t been able to address in the short term,” adds Chauvin.

Chauvin says ultimately, if someone chooses to stay out this winter, he will help them move to one of the city’s other designated encampment sites.

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